Apple shares hit record high

For the first time in its history shares in Mac and iPhone tech giant Apple have reached above $300 each – a record for the company.

Ten years ago, when CEO Steve Jobs returned to the firm, Apple shares could be purchased for just $30. The share price has risen 43 per cent this year alone.

The news comes as Apple announces a press event scheduled for next week when it is expected to unveil new additions to its existing range of Macs as well as a new version of its Mac OS X operating software.

This year has seen the launch of the iPad, which since its arrival in April has sold in excess of 3m units. June saw the launch of the iPhone 4 that, despite some complications, has also been a strong sales success.